Special Milk Program (SMP)

Begun in 1955, the Special Milk Program is administered at the Federal level by the U.S. Department of Agriculture through its Food and Nutrition Service, formerly the Food and Consumer Service. The Special Milk Program (SMP) provides milk to children in schools, childcare institutions, and eligible camps that do not participate in other Federal child nutrition meal service programs. The program reimburses schools for the milk they serve. 

Schools in the National School Lunch or School Breakfast Programs may also participate in the SMP to provide milk to children in half-day pre-kindergarten and kindergarten programs where children do not have access to the school meal programs. 

If you would like additional information about reimbursements, program regulations, menu planning, and more for the Special Milk Program, go to:  

• USDA FNS Web Page on Special Milk Program 
• USDA SMP Information Sheet